This title uses the keyword “Instagram” and emphasises the importance of avoiding common scams, which are likely to be a concern for many individuals. The inclusion of the phrase “new to Instagram” makes it clear that the content is relevant to those who are just beginning to use the platform.
I am referring to the frustrating Instagram scams that have been occurring over the past few years. Scammers of this type are very cunning and target beginners. Consequently, the question arises as to what to do and how to prevent such scammers from exploiting Instagram users. In response, we have compiled this guide to assist you in avoiding various Instagram scams.
The top Instagram scams that could be disastrous for beginners
A new place for scammers to harm innocent people with their clever proposals is Instagram. As we reviewed these scams, we were also surprised at how far the scammers had succeeded with their fraud. One can hardly imagine that such individuals would go to such lengths to harm someone. These scammers interact in such a manner that even a mature person can fall for their traps.
Furthermore, these scams are so prevalent that many users are ultimately forced to delete their Instagram accounts. It is human nature to avoid challenges, but without facing them, we cannot succeed. As a result, we are about to provide information on the various scams on Instagram so that you can combat them if someone attempts to scam you.
- Romance Scam: In this scam, the scammer sends romantic messages to individuals they do not know, often pretending to be divorced, widowed, or in distress. They then set a trap by claiming to need money for flight tickets. The scammer first gains the victim’s trust and then gradually requests payment.
- Lottery Scam: As their name suggests, lottery scams are those in which scammers claim that the victim has won a lottery. They often pretend to be a government agency. To deposit the supposed lottery winnings into the victim’s bank account, they request information such as bank details, addresses, and other private information.
- Loan Scams: In loan scams, scammers write comments on posts offering loans at a low-interest rate for a small advance fee. Once the user sends an initial payment, the scammers ask for more money to provide a large loan amount. After receiving that payment, they disappear and deactivate their Instagram account.
- The False Investment Scam: It is common knowledge that investment is necessary to grow one’s profits. For this reason, scammers promise immaterial monetary benefits, such as doubling the investment amount in just seven days. As a result, innocent individuals are duped into investing in the scam, and after the scammer receives the money, they disappear and delete their Instagram accounts.
- Job scams: This type of scam is one of the most common. As we know, finding a job is not easy in today’s job market, where there is a great deal of competition. As a result, many young people fall into the trap of job scams. The scammer takes money from the victim in exchange for a job offer, and once they receive the payment, they change or delete their Instagram account.
- Credit Card Scam: The number of people using credit cards has increased in the digital economy. In this scheme, scammers use stolen financial information to make online payments to take advantage of opportunities. Your credit card information may be included in these stolen financial details. Therefore, it is important to report any suspicious activity on your card immediately.
- Subscription Services Scam: We know that paid services can be very expensive, and not everyone can afford them. Scammers attempt to attract their victims by promising to offer paid subscriptions at a very low cost. However, as with the other scams mentioned, the scammer does not provide access to the promised subscription services after receiving payment.
- Phishing scam: In a phishing scam, the scammer sends a suspicious link to offer gifts or other items. When the victim clicks on the link, their personal information is automatically accessed by the scammer. As a result, they can gain access to the victim’s phone, email, and other personal information. It is important to only click on such links if they are from a genuine and official organisation.
- Inauthentic sellers: On Instagram, we see numerous products being sold. Among these sellers are fraudulent individuals who use low-priced items to lure buyers. They often create a sense of urgency and request payment using an unsecured method to obtain the buyer’s card details for further criminal activities.
In conclusion, these are the top scams that are ruining Instagram users. This is such a significant problem that it has even been mentioned in Instagram’s official report and abuse section. Therefore, it is important for all users, whether they are beginners or seasoned Instagram users, to be aware of these scams. If you have questions, please feel free to ask them below and report them to Instagram.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the most common scams on Instagram?
Ans. The most common scams on Instagram are discussed in the above guide.
Q2. What are the most popular scams right now?
Ans. The scams listed above are currently the most popular on Instagram.
Q3. What happens if you text a scammer back?
Ans. If you text a scammer back, they may sell your details to other scammers for further criminal activities.
Q4. How do you catch a scammer on Instagram?
Ans. One way to catch a scammer on Instagram is to be wary of anyone who asks for money or personal information.